Colombia Expat Forum

PittsburghSound
Joined 2016
Posts: 174

6 years ago

And miles to go...

6 years ago

I want to ask for some real advice here. Don't be afraid to tell me how difficult/unlikely it is. I am determined to try my hand at something, but I am also open to suggestions. What I want to figure out is what I can do in terms of work to stay here long term.

To remind you guys a bit about me: I'm a young guy (27) living and working in Bucaramanga. I've been here since April 2016. I have no plans to leave Colombia any time soon.

Right now I work as a teacher. I work at a language institute and I also teach private lessons on the side.

In all, I make good money by Colombian standards. But I don't see this as something I will be able to do long term. It's good to know the option/demand is there. I suppose it will always be an emergency fallback plan. That's a good thing to have.

Maybe I'd be able to make a better life out of that if I didn't have to work at the school. If I taught private lessons all day Monday-Saturday I would make a killing by Colombian standards. But I need the visa, so for now I have to work there.

I know that many expats here in Colombia don't work. But what should I try to get myself into after teaching? I'm still working on my Spanish... I'm sure improving that would increase my chances of making connections for other types of work. I'm thinking maybe translating and working for a big company that regularly communicates abroad might be some sensible solutions.

Also, where? I love Bucaramanga, but it is just a very small place without much long term opportunity unless I start my own business. Bogotá? Medellín?

Looking forward to your ideas.

GeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

GeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

Living in Colombia Guide

Expats in Colombia discuss the pros and cons of living in Colombia. From the Colombian people to driving to taxes and more. As challenging as it can be, expats in Colombia clearly find that there is a lot to love about a country that is a surprising expat hot spot.

Colombia Forum
Join our Colombia forum to meet other expats and talk about living in Colombia.

Contribute
Help other expats and newcomers by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Colombia.

Best Places to Live in Colombia

If you're considering a move to Colombia, here are the 15 Best Places to Live in Colombia in 2023.

Healthcare in Colombia

Our guide to healthcare in Colombia covers public and private healthcare in Colombia, hospitals, vaccinations, prescription medications and more.

Cost of Living in Colombia

Expats offer insight into the cost of living in Colombia.

Moving to Colombia Guide

With its bustling cities, beautiful beaches and friendly Colombians, Colombia is an increasingly popular destination for expats of all ages. Expats in Colombia offer insightful tips for those moving to Colombia.

Real Estate in Colombia

Real estate listings in popular cities and towns in Colombia.

Pros & Cons of Living in Colombia

Take off your rose-colored glasses and learn what expats have to say about the biggest challenges and the greatest rewards of living in Colombia.

Retiring in Colombia

Advice for people retiring in Colombia.

10 Tips for Living in Colombia

If you've recently arrived in Colombia, here are 10 tips for digital nomads living in Colombia.

Additional Information:

Visit our Colombia Index for a Full List

GeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

GeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

Contribute
Help others in Colombia by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Colombia.